Sunday, May 16, 2010

Many parents often wonder if spanking is a good idea when discipling their children. It's definitely true that spanking typically yields the immediate results parents often want. However, many researchers suggest that spanking leads to aggressive behavior in children over the long run. In a recent study published in the journal, Pediatrics, researchers at Tulane University provide strong evidence that this may be true.

This study was one of the first to control for other factors that might lead to aggressive behavior in children, such as a mother's depression, alcohol and drug use, spousal abuse, and whether she considered abortion when she was pregnant with the child. After controlling for all these factors, spanking remained a strong predictor of violent behavior. The children who had been spanked were more likely to be defiant, demand immediate satisfaction of their wants and needs, become frustrated easily, have temper tantrums, and lash out physically against other people or animals.

About Me

Dr. Jennifer L. Mockler is a licensed psychologist practicing in Tampa, Florida. She received her Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of Florida. Dr. Mockler began her career working as a psychologist for the Broward County School District. She was also a faculty member at Nova Southeastern University and taught courses to school psychology graduate students. Dr. Mockler conducted research at the University of Florida Brain Institute, authored several articles in leading academic journals, and presented research findings at national conferences on topics including neuroanatomy, intelligence, ADHD, and reading ability in children. Dr. Mockler has experience working with gifted, learning disabled, developmentally delayed, autistic, mentally handicapped, hyperactive, emotionally handicapped, and physically impaired children. She also works with parents and teachers so that children can reach their fullest potential at home and at school. In her spare time, Dr. Mockler enjoys spending time with her husband and two daughters.